– 458 teams applied, competition ratio 25:1… Applications concentrated on AI and robotics
– From space and investment to TIPS integration… Providing a full-cycle growth support program
Smilegate’s startup support platform, Orange Planet , has finally selected 18 promising startup teams through its regular recruitment for the first half of 2026.
A total of 458 teams applied for this recruitment, resulting in a competition ratio of approximately 25 to 1. Notably, reflecting global startup trends, applications in the artificial intelligence (AI) sector accounted for the largest share, and a significant number of deep tech startups based on advanced technologies such as robotics were also included. In addition, startups from various industries, including finance, lifestyle, fashion and beauty, and content, participated.
Selection centered on AI and robotics… Connecting to investment and global expansion
Orange Planet selected 18 teams with technological capabilities and global scalability through document screening, interviews, and presentation evaluations. Key selected companies included the robot tactile sensor platform ‘Tacture’, the on-device AI infrastructure ‘Zetic AI’, the real-time AI copilot ‘WeFrontier’, and the digital twin-based drug discovery platform ‘Witgen Biotechnology’.
Selected teams will be provided with customized programs, including training and mentoring tailored to their business stage, as well as support for global expansion. They will be able to use office space at the Gangnam Center free of charge for up to 12 months, and will also be given the opportunity for review of initial investment of up to 500 million KRW through Smilegate Investment , as well as follow-up investment opportunities linked to TIPS.
In addition, opportunities for business expansion and collaboration are supported through mentoring by senior entrepreneurs and networking programs among startups.
Center Director Seo Sang-bong stated, “Many teams with technological prowess and a global vision, centered on the fields of AI and robotics, applied,” adding, “We will provide full support to the selected companies so that they can grow into next-generation unicorns.”
Meanwhile, Orange Planet is a startup support platform established by Smilegate that has nurtured more than 400 startups over the past 12 years. It has established itself as a leading startup incubation program in Korea, with the cumulative valuation of alumni companies exceeding 4 trillion won to date.
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